If you are on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender, slow-cooked chicken soaked in rich Parmesan garlic sauce, combined with creamy, cheesy macaroni that melts perfectly with every bite. This dish brings together the best of home-cooked soul food with a twist of bold flavors that are sure to have you coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this recipe elevates classic mac and cheese to something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Trust me when I say the magic of this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple, well-rounded ingredients. Each one plays a key role: from the mild, creamy cheeses adding luscious texture, to the herbs and spices that deliver layers of flavor and color.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: The lean protein base that soaks up all the garlic and Parmesan goodness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential to bring all flavors to life and season the chicken perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the creamy richness.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a touch of smoky warmth and lovely color contrast.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory depth without overwhelming the palate.
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: The star ingredient that infuses tender chicken with irresistible tangy, creamy flavor.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles: Classic pasta shape that holds onto every bit of sauce and cheese.
- 2 cups whole milk: Creates the creamy base essential for the mac and cheese’s signature smoothness.
- 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese: A perfect blend of creamy and tangy that melts beautifully.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings velvety texture and dreaminess to every forkful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish: Adds flawless sharpness and a touch of elegance on top.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: A hint of freshness and inviting burst of green color.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breast with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. These simple spices lay the foundation for a flavorful outcome. Place the chicken in your slow cooker and generously coat it with the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce. Set it on low heat and let the magic happen for four hours. The slow cooking tenderizes the chicken to perfection, allowing it to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once your chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), take it out and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial because you want each forkful to have the perfect balance of chicken and cheesy pasta. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and, if you love extra sauce, add more Parmesan Garlic Sauce now.
Step 3: Par-Cook the Macaroni
Boiling your elbow macaroni for just 3 minutes might feel unconventional, but trust me, it’s a game changer. It’s enough to soften the noodles while preventing them from overcooking in the slow cooker later. Drain the pasta and set it aside to be combined with the chicken and cheese mixture shortly.
Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook Everything Together
Now for the best part. Add the par-cooked macaroni, whole milk, shredded Colby Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese into the slow cooker with your flavorful shredded chicken. Stir everything well so that every ingredient gets cozy with one another. Put the lid back on and cook on low for an hour. Stir a few times during this hour to encourage melty, cheesy perfection.
Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
At this point, your Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is practically begging to be devoured. For a final flourish, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top. These garnishes add that extra punch of flavor and a pop of color that makes this dish both beautiful and irresistible.
How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan cheese and bright parsley elevate the dish’s flavor and make it look stunning. The Parmesan adds an extra sharpness that sings alongside the creamy cheese sauce, while parsley refreshes the rich dish visually and on the palate.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out this decadent meal, consider serving it with crisp green vegetables such as steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. These lighter sides provide a nice contrast, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying without being too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests or just make dinner feel extra special? Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personal portions that look charming and restaurant-worthy. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top just before serving adds a touch of artisan appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making the next-day version just as satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, this dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture and avoid overcooking the pasta.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mac and cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk during reheating helps revive the creamy sauce and keeps the dish from drying out. Take your time, and it’ll taste just as fresh as the first go-around.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby Jack is fantastic for its meltiness and mild flavor, feel free to mix in cheddar, mozzarella, or even gouda for a twist. Just keep the overall cheese amount similar to keep the sauce creamy and balanced.
Is it necessary to par-cook the macaroni?
Par-cooking the macaroni prevents it from becoming mushy in the slow cooker. Since it continues to cook alongside the other ingredients, par-boiling ensures perfect texture every time.
Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
You can, but the slow cooker really allows the chicken to become tender and soak up the Parmesan garlic sauce fully. On the stove, you would need to cook chicken separately then combine everything with cheese on lower heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
What is the role of cream cheese in this recipe?
Cream cheese adds essential creaminess and thickness to the sauce. It ensures the mac and cheese is indulgently smooth and rich without becoming greasy or runny.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Yes! In fact, preparing it a few hours before serving and keeping it warm in the slow cooker can be super convenient and stress-free. Just give it a good stir before serving and add fresh garnishes at the last minute.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a big, comforting hug while also impressing with flavor and creativity. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for gatherings. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite meal that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender slow-cooked chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and flavorful meal. Featuring Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce, this dish delivers a rich garlic and Parmesan flavor, perfect for a hearty family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce (enough to coat chicken)
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in a slow cooker and pour enough Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the top to coat the chicken well. Cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken pieces right in the slow cooker. Add more Parmesan Garlic Sauce if you desire a saucier texture.
- Par-Cook Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of boiling water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni noodles for 3 minutes to par-cook them. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Slow Cook Mac and Cheese: Add the par-cooked macaroni, whole milk, shredded Colby Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese directly to the slow cooker with the shredded chicken. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Cook on low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Once the mac and cheese is creamy and hot, serve portions topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the best creamy texture; skim or low-fat milk will result in a thinner sauce.
- Par-cooking the pasta ensures it finishes cooking perfectly in the slow cooker without becoming mushy.
- If unavailable, you can substitute Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce with a homemade mixture of garlic, Parmesan cheese, butter, and mayonnaise for similar flavor.
- Stir the mac and cheese occasionally during the final hour of slow cooking to prevent sticking and uneven melting.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
